Vidofnir

Definitions

A mythological bird (variously, a falcon or a rooster) that inhabits the top of Mímameiðr, a tree identified with Yggdrasil; sometimes positioned on the brow of another cosmic bird.

Norse

Equivalents

Examples

“The special magic that lay⟳ within Laevatein's powers was such that it was the only weapon that could kill⟳ the cock Vidofnir ("Tree Snake").”

“2003, William P. Reaves (translator), Viktor Rydberg, Our Fathers' Godsaga: Retold for the Young, [1887, Viktor Rydberg, Fädernas Gudasaga berättad för Ungdomen], iUniverse, page 203, In the poem Fjölsvinnsmál, which portrays Svipdag's arrival in Asgard, Svipdag asks the guardian by the gate under what condition it would be possible to persuade⟳ the subterranean dis Sinmara (the "sinew maimer" Mimir-Nidhad's queen) to surrender⟳ the sword she keeps. The guardian replies that Sinmara is gripped by a severe sorrow for which Vidofnir has compassion; she will only be happy again, if a luminous sickle, lying among Vidolfnir′s völnur, is given to her.”

“18 Vidofnir: in v. 24 it is revealed that Vidofnir is a cockerel roosting in the tree of Mimi. […] 24 Sinmara: probably a giantess, cf. 'pale giantess' in v. 29. How Vidofnir oppresses her is not clear.”

“2019, Glenn Searfoss, Cycles of Norse Mythology, Andrews UK (Acorn Books), unnumbered page, "The unbidden visitor can pass⟳ their sleepless watch⟳ by offering up two morsels stripped from beneath the wings of the gay cock, Vidofnir. It is a treat⟳ they cannot resist⟳; when tossed at their feet it will allow⟳ a man to slip⟳ by while they eat⟳."”

CEFR level